A POPULAR headteacher has said a fond farewell to staff and students after nearly four decades at The Kingswinford School.

Bronwyn Hedley has retired from the Water Street school after 37 years in teaching.

Described as "an exemplary headteacher" - Mrs Hedley joined the school in 1980 after studying for a degree in medieval and modern history at Birmingham University followed by a Postgraduate Certificate of Education.

Initially she taught history, geography, religious education and economics and worked her way up to become assistant and then deputy headteacher before landing the top job.

During her lengthy career - she also gained her National Professional qualification for headship and her masters degree in educational leadership at Nottingham University.

And under her tenure as headteacher - she oversaw two school extensions including the addition of a brand new refectory which governors named after her her with a special plaque.

Mrs Hedley also led the school as it converted to a stand alone academy and during this academic year the school joined the Windsor Academy Trust.

She said of her time at the helm: “It has been a great privilege to have led this wonderful school which is at the heart of the local community. It has a unique culture of which I am immensely proud.

"I wish everyone connected with it in the future all the best as The Kingswinford School goes from strength to strength.”

Janice Daines, chairman of the Local Advisory Board, said: “Mrs Hedley has been an exemplary headteacher.

"The school has developed greatly with her enthusiasm, loyalty, friendship and love of the school.

"She will be sorely missed and we wish her the very best of health and happiness in the next chapter of her life.”

Mrs Hedley plans to spend time travelling and doing voluntary work.

Thomas Macdonald from West Midlands Construction UTC in Wolverhampton is set to take over as headteacher from September.